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Storyline

Iwao Enokizu is a middle-aged man who has an unexplainable urge to commit insane and violent murders. Eventually he is chased by the police all over Japan, but somehow he always manages to escape. He meets a woman who runs a brothel. They love each other but how long can they be together? Written by
Mattias Thuresson

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User Reviews

If you feel that a films purpose is to merely entertain, avoid "Vengeance Is Mine". On the other hand, if you're interested in using film as a psychological exploration that can develop any character's mind, than you'll be fascinated by the film. To be honest, I fall somewhere in between. "Vengeance Is Mine" is undeniably an interesting and purely objective portrait of a diseased mind. The film takes all the potential flash from the brutality, making it impossible to find the proceedings exciting or thrilling, just disturbing. The film casts a cold eye on the main character, never passing judgment on his actions. The only problem is, the film isn't really enjoyable and there isn't a single remotely likable, or even sympathetic, character in the film. If the characters once garnered our sympathy, the film would be infinitely more powerful. Its still a raw and unnerving experience in its present form however.

This all being said, the film is still very well made no matter what. Legendary Japanese director Shohei Imamura is very technically skilled, choosing all the right angles and keeping everything moving at a pace. The pace is never too quick to glamorize the action or slow to lose the audience's interest. The acting is accomplished as well, particularly Ken Ogata as the serial killer. His portrayal is nuanced and frightening, adding a sense of realism to what is an entirely probable story (its allegedly based on fact). Even though I didn't find it exactly entertaining, "Vengeance Is Mine" is one of the most interesting, developed, and realistic views of a serial killer ever in cinema. (7/10)

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